Ghostbusters movies in order Ghostbusters Marathon
Page Last Modified:
15 December 2025
Most Recent Release:
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire - 2024
Total Runtime:
571 Minutes
Total Items:
5
Average User Score:
(6.8)Ghostbusters movies in order
Well, now's your chance. The Ghostbusters franchise has become a classic mix of supernatural comedy, nostalgia, proton packs, and popcorn fun. Whether you're a die-hard fan of Peter Venkman (Bill Murray) or you joined through Phoebe (Mckenna Grace) in the newer sequels, these films deserve a thoughtfully curated viewing order. Trust me, there's a way that makes everything come together perfectly. But don't worry, we've figured out the perfect order for you. From the original Ghostbusters from back in 1984 to the thrilling action of Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, this marathon has it all: cult vibes, ectoplasm, New York ghosts, and of course, that unforgettable theme song. Grab your ghost trap, charge up your proton pack, and fire up the Ecto-1. We're ghost hunting in style.
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1
Ghostbusters Movie 107 min. 1984After losing their academic posts at a prestigious university, a team of parapsychologists goes into business as proton-pack-toting "ghostbusters" who exterminate ghouls, hobgoblins and supernatural pests of all stripes. An ad campaign pays off when a knockout cellist hires the squad to purge her swanky digs of demons that appear to be living in her refrigerator.USER SCORE 7 -
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Ghostbusters II Movie 108 min. 1989The discovery of a massive river of ectoplasm and a resurgence of spectral activity allows the staff of Ghostbusters to revive the business.USER SCORE 7 -
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Ghostbusters: Afterlife Movie 124 min. 2021When single mom Callie and her two kids Trevor and Phoebe arrive in a small Oklahoma town, they begin to discover their connection to the original Ghostbusters and the secret legacy their grandfather left behind.USER SCORE 7 -
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Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire Movie 115 min. 2024When the discovery of an ancient artifact unleashes an evil force, Ghostbusters new and old must join forces to protect their home and save the world from a second Ice Age.USER SCORE 6 -
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Ghostbusters (1984)
We're kicking things off with the OG, the 1984 Ghostbusters film. The 1984 movie Ghostbusters, directed by Ivan Reitman, is the franchise's foundation and one of the most popular supernatural comedies ever made. In this case, we're introduced to the paranormal investigation team. Peter Venkman (Bill Murray), Ray Stantz (Dan Aykroyd), Egon Spengler (Harold Ramis), and later, Winston Zeddemore (Ernie Hudson). They team up to take on supernatural threats with their trusty gadgets, like the proton pack, ghost trap, and the iconic Ecto-1. The movie takes place in a crazy but recognizable New York City, where ghosts, demons, and chaos pile up, including the hilarious appearance of the Stay Puft Marshmallow Man. Key characters like Dana Barrett (Sigourney Weaver), Louis Tully (Rick Moranis), and the first hints of Gozer, Zuul (Gatekeeper), and Vinz Clortho (Keymaster) also make their debut. This is the start of the Ghostbusters universe, and no marathon is complete without this classic as the starting point.
Ghostbusters II (1989)
Five years later, the team returns in Ghostbusters II, once again directed by Ivan Reitman. The atmosphere is just as nostalgic, but the story goes deeper into what happened after their first adventure. The Ghostbusters have split up, but they're back together again because there's a new paranormal threat under the city: a river of psychomagnetic slime. You got it, all the main characters are back, including Dana Barrett and her son, who's got a pretty important part in the story. The film brings in new characters and shows how the Ghostbusters have changed since the first movie. It also highlights how their technology and teamwork have improved. This sequel connects the original team with the franchise's broader mythology. And yes, the Ecto-1 still cruises through Manhattan like a boss.
Ghostbusters: Afterlife (2021)
Let's jump ahead to 2021, where the franchise gets a fresh shot with Ghostbusters: Afterlife. Jason Reitman (Ivan's son) directed this film, which picks up where the original movies left off, decades later. We're following the family of a deceased Ghostbuster. The main characters are Callie (Carrie Coon), her daughter Phoebe (Mckenna Grace), and son Trevor (Finn Wolfhard). They team up to figure out their link to the original crew and the secrets left on a remote farm. It's got references to the cartoon series The Real Ghostbusters, cameos, and the original tech like proton packs and ghost traps. It's like a loving reboot within the existing canon. And let's not forget Paul Rudd as Gary Grooberson, the man who makes science teachers cool.
Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire (2024)
In Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire, directed by Gil Kenan, is the new generation's return, but this time they're not alone. The action moves back to the famous Ghostbusters Firehouse HQ in New York, where old and new come together. Phoebe, Trevor, Callie, and Gary are teaming up with the original members to stop a supernatural ice age scenario before it's too late. The film is expanding the mythology with new ghosts, gadgets, and a deeper exploration of Ghostbusters lore. Fans of the Ghostbusters animated series and comics will find plenty of Easter eggs to enjoy, and yes, Slimer is back too. This is the end of the current film timeline, and it's a must-watch if you're planning to finish your marathon.
Ghostbusters: Answer the Call (2016)
While Ghostbusters: Answer the Call (2016), directed by Paul Feig, doesn't fit within the chronological main canon, but it absolutely deserves a spot in your marathon, perhaps as a bonus film. This reboot takes place in an alternate universe where the original team doesn't exist and introduces a completely new cast: Holtzmann (Kate McKinnon), Erin Gilbert (Kristen Wiig), Abby Yates (Melissa McCarthy), and Patty Tolan (Leslie Jones). The film offers a modern take on the Ghostbusters idea and is filled with nods to the original movies, including cameos from cast members as a tribute. Picture new gadgets, a revamped Ecto-1, and an overload of slime. You don't need to understand the main storyline to enjoy it, but it's a fun way to switch things up if you're in the mood for a lighter, self-aware take on the Ghostbusters concept.
How to Plan Your Ghostbusters Movie Marathon Like a Pro
Start things off in the afternoon with the original films. Then, move on to Afterlife, and finish up with the chilly vibes of Frozen Empire. Save Answer the Call as bonus material or comic relief in between. Hey, make sure you stock up on snacks (marshmallows, anyone?), put that iconic theme song on repeat as an intro, and don't forget to set the right atmosphere: lights dimmed, proton pack on standby. Remember, the Ghostbusters franchise is more than just movies. If you want to fully immerse yourself in this classic supernatural comedy franchise, check out the Ghostbusters video games, comics, and merchandise. And you never know, you might just become the next Gatekeeper. Or Keymaster. Make smart choices. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just getting started, this chronological order will give you the full Ghostbusters experience. And let's be real, ghost hunting in New York with a team full of charm, science, and sass? What more could you want? It's time to start that marathon. Who you gonna call?